Threats Against Sweden's Foreign Minister Spark Political and Public Safety Concerns
Recent threatening incidents aimed at Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard have raised alarms about political safety in Sweden.
Key Points
- • Maria Malmer Stenergard faced threatening incidents from activists.
- • Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson condemned these acts as attacks on democracy.
- • Police are investigating these incidents as illegal intrusion.
- • Several politicians have reported harassment from activists recently.
On June 12, 2025, a series of threatening incidents targeting Sweden's Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard have ignited significant concerns over political safety and harassment among public officials. These events have been linked to activist group actions, leading to police investigations and government officials expressing their condemnation.
The most alarming incident occurred when members of the Kurdish activist group Rojavakommittéerna allegedly entered Stenergard's stairwell, leaving behind provocative messages. This act is currently being investigated as illegal intrusion by the police, with spokesperson Ola Österling confirming that around two individuals were unauthorized in the area (Sources: 4656, 4662, 4664). Stenergard responded by underscoring the importance of politicians being able to perform their duties without the threat of violence, stating, "I will always stand up for the right to demonstrate and protest – as well as the right to be a politician and not be afraid of threats and violence at work, in society, or at home" (Source: 4656).
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, who condemned the actions as detrimental to democracy, highlighted that several politicians have faced similar harassment recently, characterizing these acts as direct attacks on the democratic process. He remarked on the troubling message behind the phrase 'we know where you live,' indicating the seriousness of such threats within the context of Swedish politics (Source: 4664).
Former Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that no elected official should feel endangered by threats, calling the situation "unacceptable" (Source: 4656). Meanwhile, the activist group claimed their actions were not threatening, aiming to raise awareness of issues related to Stenergard’s policy responsibilities concerning the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza (Source: 4662).
With these incidents unfolding, fears surrounding the safety of public officials and the maintenance of civil discourse in political discussions continue to mount, marking a crucial point in Sweden's political climate.